Strategies to prevent sexual and gender-based violence and foster equity in rural schools 
panel
Credit
GPE/Paul Martinez

Project Abstract

This project addressed the urgent issue of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in rural schools across Haiti, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Led by CLADE (Latin American Campaign for the Right to Education), the initiative used participatory action research (IAP) with a gender lens to generate empirical evidence, build local capacity, and influence education policy. The project empowered students, educators, and communities to recognize and prevent violence, fostering safer and more inclusive learning environments. 

Project Stats

Completed

Project Leader:

Nelsy Lizarazo Castro

Implementing Countries:

Main Theme:

Duration:

33 months

End Date:

Dec 2023

Project Impacts: Policy and Practice

Impact: Policy & Practice

The project led to policy and practice changes in all three countries, with strong evidence uptake by governments and civil society:

Honduras

  • The Ministry of Education invited project partners to contribute to curriculum reform discussions for 2024.
  • Local governments invested in safer school infrastructure, including secure bathrooms and water systems.
  • Teachers and students began implementing peer-led awareness campaigns and violence prevention strategies.

Nicaragua

  • Despite political constraints, community leaders and educators sustained project activities.
  • The Ministry of Health established a medical post to address adolescent pregnancy, and the Ministry of Education hired school security staff.
  • Students created educational games and videos to raise awareness about bullying and harassment.

Haiti

  • The Ministry of Education partnered with the project to develop a national radio soap opera in Haitian Creole to raise awareness about SGBV.
  • Women leaders from SOFA became key advocates for school safety and gender equity.
  • Students and teachers reported increased recognition and response to bullying and sexual violence.
“This project helped us teach children not to hide when they experience violence, and to speak up about what happens at home, in school, and in their lives. It must continue and expand to more schools.”
Coordinator, SOFA (Association of Haitian Women)

Updates and Activities

Research Outputs